During this crazy time in the world, it’s extremely important to make a point of checking in with your mental health and emotions regularly.

As Mental Health Awareness Week comes to an end, I’m acknowledging my unhealthy mental habits and swapping them for a better mindset. My weekly flow for the past 8 weeks consists of a two to three day stretch of productivity and happiness followed by two full days of sleeping, one day of a depression and then two more days of resetting to become my best self.

The other day, an old pal and I were checking in when I realized I seem to be handling this situation better on the outside than on the inside. I couldn’t help but laugh out when she stated, “you seem like you’re holding up pretty well! I see you being productive with your writing and hitting that yoga mat every day.” I broke down and opened up about how I truly felt during this time of solidarity.

The truth is, I’ve been way too hard on myself mentally during this time at home. I wanted to accomplish so many things but fell into a trap of emotional eating and sleeping my sorrows away. After weeks of disappointment, I decided to stop putting so much pressure on myself.

It’s time to look on the bright side.

Here are a few positive reminders for those of you struggling as well:

Don’t be so hard on yourself.

Set ONE goal to accomplish each day.

You are not alone.

Try something new.

Find inspiration from people going through things similar to you.

*This video not only helped me realize I’m not alone during this time, Tarek’s message also motivated and inspired me to do what I can today to get where I’d like to be tomorrow (or whenever we’re allowed out of the house again).

Reach out to someone (like me) when you’re struggling with feeling alone.

Take a break from technology and spend time with nature.

You don’t have to get it all done in one day.

Now is the perfect time to finish those things you said you would do when you had more time.

It’s okay to feel how you feel; your emotions do not define you.

Although it may be challenging, remember to look on the bright side. Times may be difficult now, but as my favorite saying goes; “You can’t have rainbows without rain“.